Been free from visa/mastercard cards for years thanks to their pro-active approach of disconnecting Russian users, and not even sure if I’ll go back if they return.
Unionpay, Mir and cash solved my issues just fine, domestically and abroad.
And with the amount of tracking we are under (globally as well), going cash is like going dark. Feels good. Plus, some establishments out here offer discount for cash payments, so kind of a win-win for me.
The whole visa/mastercard situation is unsurprising and very telling. I just hope people will remember that when folks in power weaponize neutral instruments for any cause, including one you agree with, it’s only a matter of time till they will attempt to restrict something you would be against.














